A young mother from Leeds has revealed how transforming her approach to food helped her lose an incredible six stone, save money, and dramatically improve her wellbeing.
From Fad Diets to Lifelong Change
Eleanor Brown, a 24-year-old mum-of-three from Middleton in Leeds, says her life changed completely after she joined a local Slimming World group. After years of unsuccessful fad diets and weight loss pills prescribed by her GP, Eleanor found a sustainable solution. Her turning point came after being inspired by her grandmother, Joan, who had transformed her own life with the programme.
"Like lots of mums, for years I put myself last," Eleanor explained. "My weight crept up after my second baby during lockdown – I went from 13st to nearly 17st in what felt like no time." She struggled with severe back pain and felt desperate, finding restrictive diets "miserable" and impossible to maintain.
A Supportive Community and Practical Tips
Attending her first Slimming World meeting was a revelation. Eleanor expected a room full of older people but found a diverse mix of ages and backgrounds, including other young parents. In her very first week, following the healthy eating plan, she lost an impressive 8lbs – a moment she describes as "life-changing."
"A lot of people assume I’ve lost weight using injections and they’re always surprised when I explain it’s simply down to changing the way I cook and eat," she said. The key, she insists, was learning practical, family-friendly recipes at her weekly group sessions. This shift also had a positive impact on her finances. "We used to rely on takeaways. Now I make healthy versions of our favourites at home," she noted, pointing out that a single takeaway could cost £30, whereas cooking at home is far more affordable.
Transformed Health and a New Career
The physical and mental benefits have been profound. Eleanor no longer suffers from crippling back pain, gets out of breath on stairs, or avoids leaving the house due to embarrassment. She has gone from 16st 9lbs to 10st 5lbs, and her confidence has soared – even speaking at her sister's baby shower, something she would never have done before.
Her journey aligns with new Slimming World research focusing on members aged 18–34. The study of over 3,200 members found they lost an average of 12% of their body weight (around 2st 1lb). Crucially, 92% felt part of a supportive community, 89% reported a healthier relationship with food, and 59% said their mental wellbeing improved.
Inspired by her own transformation, Eleanor has now become a Slimming World Consultant herself, running groups in Leeds to help others. Her consultant, Jane Masefield, praised Eleanor's "honesty, determination, and openness," which have inspired everyone around her.
Carolyn Pallister, Registered Dietitian at Slimming World, commented: "Our research shows that being part of a supportive group doesn’t just help you lose weight – it helps you change your life."
